Plans to revitalise a major road in Watford has received a multi-million pound boost from Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

Watford Borough Council, working closely with Watford BID and Hertfordshire County Council, have identified a prime opportunity to upgrade and revitalise Clarendon Road – a major pedestrian route and employment zone linking Watford Junction and the town centre – and the surrounding areas.

The £9.82m Clarendon Road transformation programme (2019 – 2025) is supported by a £4.8m Local Growth Fund investment from Hertfordshire LEP, and £5.02m from various sources including Watford Borough Council, Hertfordshire County Council and Section 106 contributions from local developers. The first phase of work is due to be completed by March 2019.

Planned improvements include the removal of an underused subway at Beechen Grove, to be replaced with an upgraded surface level pedestrian crossing with new paving, traffic signals, and a resurfaced carriageway. Unwanted street clutter will be removed and replaced with new landscaping, waste bins and signage.

Further improvements will take place between April 2019 and March 2025 to create a safer, greener and more attractive thoroughfare to attract and retain businesses and jobs. While the area is currently dominated by traffic, the proposed design will help create a sense of arrival and direction between Watford Junction and the town centre.

The scheme ultimately looks to improve accessibility, wayfinding and lighting, connectivity, pedestrian and cycle circulation, street and road layout and air quality.

Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said "Clarendon Road is one of the town's most important hubs for business and visitors. With national and international businesses basing their HQs there, it is important we ensure that our town's infrastructure matches the ambitions they have for their business. We know that over 9 million people travel through Watford Junction each year and Clarendon Road is one of the first impressions they get of the town. That's why it is so important to create a really appealing area and a better link from the station to the town centre."

Adam Wood, Head of Infrastructure at Hertfordshire LEP said, "Watford has seen strong and substantial growth over the past three years. Our £4.8m investment towards the transformation of Clarendon Road will give visitors and businesses the best possible first impression, enabling the town to fully live up to its growth potential."

Maria Manion, Chief Executive, Watford BID said, "As the town develops, we need to improve the links with our main transport hub Watford Junction to the town centre, and ensure we provide the incentives for businesses and employers, and create the right environment for social and economic growth in Watford. This is one small but exciting part of this journey."